Frequently Asked Questions

What is Epi-LASEK?

Epi-LASEK is a form of surface ablation where only 30 microns (much less than in traditional Lasik) of corneal thickness (epithelium) is moved aside and the resulting bed is lasered, then the epithelium is replaced. This allows for better visual rehabilitation and less discomfort than the old form of surface ablation. A bandage contact lens is put over the eye in the operating room to allow the epithelium to heal quickly. The contact lens is then removed after about one week.

Who can undergo Epi-LASEK?

Individuals with up to -10 diopters of myopia, +6 diopters of hyperopia, and 6 diopters of astigmatism, or any combination of these refractive errors may qualify for Epi-LASEK, providing other criteria have been met. With regard to age, 18 years of age is the youngest, and there is no upper age limit.

Who should I go to for Epi-LASEK?

Your eyes are precious, and when considering surgery such as Epi-LASEK, you should entrust their care only to an extremely experienced surgeon who has devoted his entire career to refractive surgery, as Dr. Grandon has done. This is a serious procedure, and surgical experience should be foremost in your consideration of a surgeon. Dr. Grandon, to date, has had no serious complications which could not be corrected with glasses or contact lenses or with touch-up surgery. Dr. Grandon's re-operation rate is very low and his statistics are among the best anywhere.

Can Epi-LASEK correct hyperopic or myopic changes after RK?

Yes. Epi-LASEK is now being used to correct farsightedness (over-correction) following RK surgery and also nearsightedness after RK. This has helped many people.

Are people satisfied after having Epi-LASEK surgery?

All Dr. Grandon can say is a resounding YES. While everyone may not be perfectly happy, the vast majority are extremely happy.

Will I need reading glasses after Epi-LASEK?

Dr. Grandon can give patients excellent vision, but that does not retard the aging process. The inability to see close brought on by aging is called presbyopia. Normally people need reading glasses when they reach the ages between 45 and 50. Having had Epi-LASEK offers no exception to those patients. Occasionally, Dr. Grandon purposely leaves one eye (usually the non-dominant eye) a little nearsighted to delay the patient's need for reading glasses. This is called monovision.

What are the long-term effects of Epi-LASEK?

PRK- an early form of Epi-LASEK, has been performed worldwide since the early 1990's. The prospect for long-term stability is very high, based on historical evidence of postoperative corneal healing. There is every reason for us to believe that these reports will continue to hold true.

If I have refractive surgery, will I be more likely to develop cataracts?

No. In most cases, cataracts develop as part of a person's normal aging process. Epi-LASEK does not stop the aging process. If an Epi-LASEK patient develops cataracts later in life, he or she can be treated the same as if he or she had not undergone refractive surgery.

What is a cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens in the eye.

What causes cataracts?

The complete biochemical cause of cataracts is not known. While most cataracts develop gradually during aging, some occur after eye trauma or inflammation. Cataracts also can be associated with diabetes, gout, and other diseases. Less frequently, cataracts can be congenital, affecting babies or young people.

When is cataract surgery indicated?

There is no right or wrong answer to this question. Basically, when the decreased vision caused by the cataract begins to interfere with a person's lifestyle, the operation should be performed. As lifestyles differ from person to person, so does the right time to perform cataract surgery. Now a person does not have to wait until the cataract is mature or "ripe" to have surgery.

Do Dr. Grandon and Dr. Kronenberg perform cataract surgery?

Yes. They perform their surgery using the latest technology. They offer a variety of implant options to fully address a patient's visual needs. For example, lifestyle implants can decrease one's dependence on glasses for distance, reading or computer work.

What is glaucoma?

Glaucoma is an often silent disease which affects the optic nerve and can slowly affect a patient's peripheral vision. It becomes more common with age and is often easily treatable. It is especially important to be checked for glaucoma if a family history of the disease exists.

What is Age Related Macular Degeneration?

Age Related Macular Degeneration is a deterioration of a patient's central vision with age. It can cause blurring of the central vision and possibly loss of central vision. There are two broad categories of Age Related Macular Degeneration: dry and wet. Vision loss with dry Age Related Macular Degeneration is often gradual. Wet Age Related Macular Degeneration can cause significant visual loss more suddenly.

If I have been recently diagnosed with diabetes, how often should I have my eyes checked?

Diabetes is one of the leading causes of blindness. All diabetics need yearly eye exams. If diabetic eye disease is detected, more frequent exams will be necessary.

Do Dr. Grandon and Dr. Kronenberg treat children?

Yes, they treat children of all ages.

Does your office perform low vision exams?

Yes, we have an optometrist, Dr. Cindy Wang, who specializes in low vision exams and our optical department carries many low vision aids.

How often should I have my eyes examined?

Before the age of 60, an exam is recommended every two years. After the age of 60, a yearly exam is recommended. If problems are found, more frequent exams are most likely necessary.

Is my visit covered by my medical or vision insurance?

Visits could be covered by either medical or vision insurance. The coverage will be determined at the time of the visit.

The Eye Surgery Institute has been serving Dearborn and the surrounding community for over 60 years.